My 2009 Resolutions

1. De-clutter - for every item I bring in, an item must be taken out.
2. Track my spending - I have my spreadsheet ready.
3. Sew- I would like to see at least 15 items. Preferably, a coat, 3 dresses, 3 pants, 2 jacket and 6 tops.
4. Reestablish Game Night - my son has begging for this.
5. Organize -EVERYTHING
   
6. Blog at least once a week.
7. Listen and observe- life seemed calmer when I use to do that.
8. Reach my financial goal in increasing my EF.
9. Make one new friend (LOL, since I've been purging some).
10. Re-connect with true friends from back in the day.
11. To be a better mom.
12. Exercise at least 2 a week (I want to be a solid sz 6, not borderline sz 7 like I am now.
13. Start dating again (ugh!  Thought, I was done after all these years...)
14. Pamper myself once a month

Okay, I'm going to stop there as that's enough to make me and my life better in one year.

2008 - A Year of Releasing

Letting go is hard for me.

When I love, I love hard... to the core.

So, early on in 2008, I had to deal with "releasing" two people that I cared and loved deeply.  Pretty much around the same time.

My grandmother died Feb. 4.
Loosing my grandmother was/is... a feeling I can't describe. I know, I will always love and miss her.

When I reached out to a friend [prior to my grandma's death] for a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on; someone, who I thought would be there for me.  I had no reason to think she wouldn't.   I'd been there for her for, so many reasons, so many seasons.  NOT!!!  Her words to me still echo in my mind.  It was another blow that I just wasn't ready for.  I remember telling her, I was going to go and I hung up the phone.  I didn't call her anymore, didn't accept her phone calls...read her emails, but didn't reply.

Year 2008 was definitely a lesson in letting go and learning that not always will a person be the friend that you are to them...my grandmother, was due to death and the other two, due to circumstances...LIFE.

I was falling into a real depressed mode and I believe if it wasn't for my son and his persistence..."Come on mommy, let's go or play [insert some fun kid activity]."   I just might have crawled under that rock.  I used so much leave on the job, I couldn't take my normal week off for Xmas.  Now, I never [since giving birth to my son of 8 years] work Christmas Eve or the day after Xmas, but I'm here to tell you my butt was there!  

I don't think letting go will ever come easy for me,  no matter the circumstances.  But, I know there comes a time when you must...to grow.

I'm going to follow Adrienne's lead,  my ceremony is tomorrow.

Looking forward to 2009

Wishing you all a Happy, Healthy and Safe New Year!

My Super Hero

The Christmas brunch was nice. The kids enjoyed getting their faces painted. I am fascinated by this art and how quickly it is done.

Don't Drink and Drive...per my son

My son and I are in the car and a commercial on the radio about drunk driving comes on...states something to the fact about are you going to kill "Jennifer" tonight...don't drink and drive. This is the convo between my son and I, as I'm drinking my SODA


SON: "Mommy, put the bottle down. Do you want to kill "Jennifer"?"

MOMMY: "HUH? What are you talking about and who is Jennifer?" [shows you I was paying attention to the road and not the radio]

SON: "They said, Don't drink and drive. Jennifer, is the girl that's going to get killed tonight by someone drinking and driving. They probably not paying attention and hit her when she is trying to cross the street. I wish, I knew her so, I could tell her to just stay home today."

We went back and forth as I tried to explain to him the real meaning behind "drinking and driving" and that "Jennifer" is a made up person, but that it could very well happen to someone.

Well, aah, it didn't go very well and I ... um, had to "put the bottle down". I hope he was just referring to yesterday only, since he believed it supposedly was to happen then.

Seriously, please do not drink alcohol and drive, don't allow a loved one to do so either. Too many innocent and not so innocent people have lost their lives to drunk driving.

Weekend Wrap-up2

Hey...

I hope everyone had a good weekend. I had a nice one.

My sister took my son to the movies Friday evening. So, I joined a friend at My Place, a local sports bar. We had a good time. It was nice to be out. Saturday, I had to go pick my son up and race down the beltway to make his football game. As, I skid into the parking lot, I noticed the field was pretty empty. I saw a few of his teammates and their parents, but not the coach. As I reached one of the parents, he tells me the coach canceled the game due to tornado warnings. Huh! Although, it rained earlier, the sun was out and there was a nice breeze...nice weather. Last week, it rained cats and dogs and I called the comm. center to check (three times) to see if the game was canceled and each time and was told, "no, the game is still on as scheduled". Another parent didn't understand [me either] why the coach or the center did not call participants to inform them the game was canceled [they do it at other centers].

We headed to the mall to find him another coat...he broke the zipper on his fairly new coat [September]. I found him a really nice Nautica coat...insulate, stylish and what look like a heavy duty zipper. I think, I will take his fairy new coat to the cleaners to see if they can put in a new zipper.

Today, Sunday, we didn't go anywhere, just did stuff around the house. Quiet restful day.

In THIS Lifetime...

AMAZING!!!

YES, HE DID...

I didn't think I would get all emotional, but I did. Looking at the older folks in the crowd and hearing their stories made me think of my grandmother. I thought about some of the things she had to endure. I wish she was here to see this day. She knew Barack Obama was running for President, but I honestly don't think she thought he would succeed.

I'm ready for a change! [how 'bout you?]

Thank you Barack for giving my son hope. My son said, "Mommy, I might want to be President one day." He then asked, "... what are some of the steps you have to take to be president?" He's in the third grade. I told him, the first step is to continue to do good in school and get good grades. Graduate from high school and then go to college. I told him when he turns 18 to ask me for the next steps!

HappY BiRthDay Ma!

It must be a nice birthday gift to wake up and know that the person you voted for in the race for President of the United States ...WON!!!

I am so thankful for my mother. Like most mother and daughter relationships, we have our differences of opinions. We may not always agree on things, but she's always there when I need her most. She helps me out alot with my son. I am so very appreciative for her and the things she does for us.

What One Adjective Describes Your Household?

Hectic!

Comes to mind, when I think of my household.
I want to be so much more organized and relaxed. I still want to do things for my son, his school, the community, the dog, MYSELF amongst other things, BUT in a much more organized non-hectic way!

I plan to work on that...organization

So, tell me:

• What one adjective describes your household?
• What is one main thing that keeps you somewhat organized?
  

Link Love Tuesday #2

Showing some love...

Have you ever made butter? Yes, I said, butter. I never have, never thought I could or would. Well, I just might! I stopped by Unspeakable Visions and there it was...a make your own butter tutorial. Since I have an eight year old, I think this will be something I'll have him do; keep him occupied.

In life, we need to keep it real...be honest with ourselves and others. I was feeling the woah it's me coming on, but I shook it off [you proud?]. I decided, to check Monnie out, her post always gave me that boost I needed. Well, today was different, 'cause seemed like the Creole Princess had a little woah it's me going on too [understandably so...] But, still her message hit home [seriously, I'm in tears]...Some guys have all the luck and some of us have all the pain! I'm a firm believer and can testify that God may not give us what we want, when we want it, but God does give us what we need, when we need it. To answer Monnie's question...does your expectations match your reality? Sadly, mine doesn't and I'm going to work hard to change that.

Are you like me..."My name is ____ and I'm a magazine/paper clutter junkie". I'm doing better...I'm getting it together. I'm down to about 6 or 7 subscriptions. I've been trying to go through a magazine or newspaper per night. You would be proud, I threw away a magazine [still in it's plastic wrap] yesterday. So, I'm going to follow the advice of Declutter It and see if that helps. If you too have this problem, dial 1-800-CLUTTER...just kidding!

Have you been grocery shopping lately? OMG! Ginger tells us about her trip. The Cheap Chica gives us tips on how to save on groceries. Here's my take on using coupons to save on groceries.

Leave a comment and I'll check your site out. Check back on Tuesday to get your dose of link love.

Finally!!!

I was wondering when and if I was going to receive my first comment. After all these months I finally received my first comment. Someone read my blog...LOL!

Thanks Faye !

Link Love Tuesday

Showing some link love...

post a comment and I'll check you out.

Have you ever seen a cotton field...let alone raw cotton? I never have, but Stormee gives us a glimpes. Kids say the darnest things and Miss Shadae is no exception to the rule. I don't know her, but you've got to love her.

Well, Fall is upon us and its time to get our wardrobe together. Budget? No problem. Can you sew? If so, Erica B. will show you some D.I.Y. style. Can't sew? No problem. The Budget Chic may inspire you with what she wears. Speaking of budgets check out Free Money Finance to find out the best and worst buys at warehouse clubs (i.e., Costco etc.).

Nic may fight like a girl, but the key is she's fighting all along bringing cancer awarness to us all. Looking forward to the "Fred(the lump) Is Dead Remission" celebration.

The Weekend Recap...

This was a busy weekend, but a nice one.

Spent some time with my parents on Friday evening. Then, I came home and stayed on the phone with Verizon til 3am; attempting to get my DSL line straight. The lady who was helping me was where...[you know not in the good USA] in China. She asked, had I heard about the problem with the milk. I said, yeah, it's killing people, mainly children. I asked her what was her government thinking. I told her, I was leary of anything that states "Made in China". I no longer purchase toys [especially the brightly colored ones] from China due to the lead problem. Luckily,I no longer really buy toys...we're at the stage where all my son wants is PS2 games or games for his other electronic systems. After all the test attempted, it was concluded that I need a new modem/router. So, I'm suppose to get a new one Monday or Tuesday. I couldn't believe we were on the phone that long. Especially, when I needed to get up to take my son to his football game.

The busiest day of the entire weekend was Saturday. I got up late and was running around trying to fix breakfast, walk the dog and get my son straight so we could get out of the house. Funny, when I opened the door it was pouring down raining...I had no idea. Usually, I can hear the raindrops hitting against the window. So, I was somewhat happy that the game was canceled. I had placed alot of my son items up for consignment at a children's consignment sale and I had to be there by a certain time to pick up the remaining unsold items. Then, I had to take my son to a birthday party on the other side of town. I dropped him off and went back on my side of town to finialize a cruise (I'm a PT Travel Agent) and then went back to pick my son up from the bday/sleep over party[he didn't want to sleepover]. I sat and talked with my girlfriend and her friends and family for a few hours. It was nice to chill and have an adult conversation. Again, I couldn't believe it was midnight when we left. I couldn't wait to get back on the other side of town to take my butt to bed.

Didn't do much today but cook and watch the game.
To top the day off the REDSKINS beat the Cowboys!!!
Great Weekend...how was yours?

Handbag Planet Launching Oct 15, 2008

If you love hangbags, then you need to check out Handbag Planet. The official launch date is Oct. 15. If you love free items, then you need to check them out now!

To celebrate there launch, they are giving away a handbag every hour for 24 hrs on the day of the launch!

Good Luck!

A Family That Prey's...

I saw the movie tonight. Let's just say I'm glad I had some tissues in my purse. I'm not going to spoil it for others. I will say I liked the movie.

Please go out and support the movie and then later when the majority of folks have seen it, we can discuss it.

Chow!

Daggone It!

Aah man...

I updated my blogs layout(you like?) and I lost my favorites..."blogs I like". Now, the ones I read almost daily, I know their address or blog name and was able to recover it. The ones I like but only read occassionally, I don't recall the full name or address...Ugh! Hopefully, I will recover them all.

So to help me out leave a comment and tell me...
What is your favorite (pls no more than two per item):

• sewing blog
• fashion blog
• finance blog
• food/receipe blog
• jewerly/beading blog
• d.i.y blog
• look for less type blog
• photography blog
• shoot the breeze blog

It's Been A Year...

since my son and I left his father's home. My son still misses being there, but he seems to have adjusted living in "our" home. I've adjusted, it's nothing like peace of mind. Sometimes, I don't know if I'm coming or going though. I wish I had some "me" time, but that will come. I'm working on that. The only drama I have in my life is that which my son's father attempts to create. However, the majority of the time it doesn't phase me. It's when you care that it hurts the most. When you don't care...or not as much you can begin to see the insecurities of another. Thus, the answer to "Why the drama when we've been apart for a year and you're doing "you"? Only he can truly answer that question...and so we will never know. But , my guess...insecurity, self esteem and among other reasons come to mind. A secure person doesn't have to tear another down in attempt to make themselves look "good".

To think this time last year I was packing and moving at the same time. I was so hurt, angry and disappointed. I felt betrayed by many. I forgive, but I don't forget!

So, today, my son and I spent Labor day together and enjoyed our day this year.
I'm looking forward to my [our] future and not looking back at my past.

Grandma would have been 80 years old

I miss my grandma. I think about and talk to her picture practically everyday. Today, she would have turn 80 years old.

Happy Birthday Grandma!!!

Our birthday's are both in the month of August. When she passed, I was given her birthstone ring...I've worn it ever since. I periodically look at it and remind myself how it looked on her hand. I find myself rubbing it sometimes...I realized this the other day at work.

I wanted to cry when my son starting singing Happy Birthday to Grandma, while looking to the sky.

We both miss her.

R.I.P Grandmother.
With love Always!

My Birthday follow-up

Thankful to become a year older.

I went to see the Funky Diva's for my birthday...EN VOUGE

En Vouge was featured at the Birchmere in Alexandria, VA, It was nice seeing them. They put on a good show. Dawn didn't appear, however Rhona Bennett took her place and she was good. I wish the "Funky Divas" would go back in the studio, because clearly they still have it and mostly definitely from the crowd they still have a fan base.

I received a few bday wishes from friends, I haven't heard from in awhile [nice to know someone remembered my "special day"], family, lovely flowers from my son [he picked them out...grandma purchased them], money from family, a evening with En Vogue, perfume and a Gramin GPS system for my car!

I put the last birthday card I received from my grandmother up...still hard to believe she's gone.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!!!

I use to be so excited about my birthday. My son is more excited than I am. Don't get me wrong, I am very thankful to be here on earth to share life with my son and family, but...

okay moving on

I usually let him take me out to dinner and give him the money so he can pay [he gets a kick out of that], but my parents and my sister took us out over the weekend during Restuarant Week [Ruth Chris], so I'm not sure if that's something we'll do. Maybe I'll let him take me to a movie...LOL, I don't want to see no daggone kids movie though. I don't know when I've seen an adult movie last...in the theater. Um, I guess it was "Why Did I Get Married"

I had a gift and card in my mailbox from a neighbor...that was nice and brought a smile to my face...someone cares and remembered my special day.

I'll have to provide an update to let you know how "my" day turned out.

Not A Productive Day...

Do you have days as such?

I literally have TONS of work to do, but between my office work, household work, checking home work, home association work, my business on the side work etc., I'm POOPED!

To think I called myself cutting back...no longer VP/acting Pres. of the PTA. My son started a new school this year, so I haven't gotten involved...yet. My son started school already, August 18th was his first day.

I think I will always be an involved parent, sometimes I get a little too involved though. BUT, this is a new school year, new school and a new commitment NOT to get too involved.
Just enough to know what's going on with my son and the school is all I plan to do.

I'm NOT:

• organizing an Angel Tree event...NO, I'm Not...not doing it
• assisting with organizing school wide Christmas program...can't do it
• organizing Teacher Appreciation Week...Whew, glad I'm not doing this again

I plan to be more productive tomorrow...it was just one of those days!

Until the next time...

You Don't Argue With Crazy People!

I use to have a friend who use to say that. I find myself repeating that when I have to deal with Mr. "Crazy". Why do men try to start an argument to get out of doing something? Why can't they express themselves. Say what you mean, say what you feel...rather than start unnecessary drama. Some men are missing that "manhood" gene. I pray that I raise my son to graduate from boyhood to manhood! There are too many "men" in the world with a boyhood mentality.

okay, I'm better now (this is my therapy). Mr. Crazy trying to make me "crazy"...not happening.

$3000.00 Saving Challenge

I need to save up $3000.00 by December.
With everything that has happened this year, I have used most of my leave and I have spent most of my raining day funds. I need to replenish it. "Raining" days seem to always find me. I've decided to cut back and to go through items we no longer need or use and attempt to sale them. This should be interesting. My plan is to post items on Craigslist, Ebay and this site.

I will post my progress periodically.

Wish me success!

$3000 Challenge beginning Aug. 5,2008
Starting balance $0

VA Beach

Well, we can cross off the list VA Beach! My son and I went and we had a good time. A much better time than I thought. It was fun filled and relaxing at the same time. It was too short of a time though. I plan to build my leave back up so we can take a longer vacation like we normally do. My son said, "that's not a real vacation...it was only a couple of days". It was actually a week. I had planned to stop at Kings Dominion on our way back home, but it was pouring down raining so that messed up my plans in crossing off another place on the list.

The first day we went to the beach and he played in the sand, while I relaxed on the beach. Then, I got up and we played in the ocean and attempted to build a sand castle (we weren't very successful).

The second day, I called my cousin to let them know I was in town and wanted to see them before we left. We ended meeting them at a restuarant later that evening and had dinner together. My son played in the resorts indoor and outdoor pools, so we didn't get a chance to go on the beach at all that day.

The third day, I twisted my ankle while we were walking checking out the shops and getting some pizza. We had just come out of the pizza shop and I was talking to my son and the sidewalk wasn't leveled and I stepped on the uneven portion and lost my balance. There was NO WAY, I was going to fall on the street in front of all those people so, I broke my fall, but in the long run I twisted my ankle. I walked slowly not to bring any more attention to me as I was limping [price you pay to be cute...daggone wedge sandals]. Good thing we wasn't too far from our hotel. Either way, it was PAINFUL! After wrapping warm hot towels on my ankle, I hobbled to the pool area and my son swam, while I tried to relax.

The pain, the pain I felt when I woke up the next day. Again, I put some damp towels in the microwave and wrapped them around my ankle and was able to move a little better. My cousin called to see if we wanted to go out on their boat. YES!!! We left the dock at 12:30pm and didn't arrived back to the dock until 11:45pm.

Our last day, we visited other relatives and of course I had to do a little shopping. My son wanted to stop at Mt. Trashmore, a park we saw on our way into VA Beach. I asked my cousin about it and she said that it actually was a landfill once, thus the name Mt. Trashmore. I looked it up and here is some info on it

Massive landfill turned into a beautiful park, officially named "Mount Trashmore." Built in 1971, the 125 acre landfill was 60 feet high. Three flag poles serve as vents for methane gas; lightning struck one once and it caught fire. In 1990, Virginia Beach residents formed a human American Flag on Mount Trashmore to honor troops returning from the Persian Gulf War.]

It's really a nice park. If you get a chance check the park out.
I will update this post with the pictures later.

Home Sweet Home,
Goodnight!

My First Green Smoothie

image credit http://www.goneraw.com/


It really wasn't bad at all. I wish I had taken a picture, but I had to hurry up because I made enough for my son and I and if he saw the color of the smoothie he wouldn't drink it. It was pea green. It didn't look tasty. I put my son's smoothie in a travel cup...you know the kind where you can't see the content. I stuck a green straw in it hee hee hee and told him to drink up. He liked it, he liked it.

My son is a picky eater(so am I) and I thought this would be another way of him to get the nutrients that he needs.

I used one and a half leaf of Kale (yes, Kale), some water, lemon juice, one and a half tablespoon of sugar and one banana. Yum! The receipe calls for three leaves of Kale, but being the first time I thought I would take it slow and work my way up to three leaves

I'm Appreciated!!!

My little man put a smile on my face. He went to Hershey Park with the camp this past Tuesday. Now, normally I wouldn't allow him to go that far without me or a family member, but I couldn't go and neither could a family member. He really wanted to go and Hershey Park was on our list of things to do this summer. I looked at it as one thing down and so many to go. After I talked to the director of the summer camp, I felt better about letting him go. They left at 7am and returned at 7pm. He had a ball!

He told me about his trip and said, "Mommy, I got you something", then pulled out a red (his favorite color) Twizzler stuffed bear. He said, he got the "Twizzler" bear because he knows I don't like chocolate...LOL! I thanked him and told him he didn't have to get me anything and he said, " I wanted to because you do so much for me and for letting me go on the trip." Okay, he had me right there, but he preceded to say, "I wanted some candy, but I didn't have enough to get the bear and candy, so I put the candy back and got you the bear."
Awe...I must be doing something right.

I am appreciated!

Some People Have All the Nerve!!!

I feel like screaming to the top of my lungs.

Where do people get the nerve? The gull of some people. Sometimes, I really do hate men...BASTARDS! Do they ever grow up? I have a heart. I don't purposefully go around hurting people. "Hmm...what can I do today to make her blood boil" EVIL!!!

I know a few people who need to go find the "wizard" and ask for a heart. This year I had to let go of a few people (one I didn't want to let go of...Grandma). Letting go is hard for me. It's a wonder I'm not in one of those white straight jackets (picture Diana Ross in Lady Sings The Blues). Without going in much detail, just know when you do dirt, dirt comes back on you. When you use people, you're going to get used, etc. Friend or foe...times tells all.

Basically, what goes around comes around. You would think grown folks would know this already.

Vent over...Thanks.

The Birthday Celebration

Little people make me smile...

from the looks of the pictures and all the smiles I saw he/they had a good time. My son said, he had a nice bday, but that it went so fast.

These are pictures of my son and his two best friends.

Here are some more pictures of the day...

These kids were serious about their game. They were talkin' trash..."Look at that STRIKKKE!", "Let me pick up my spare" OMG, they were too funny.

This looks like a STRIKE to me!

Happy Birthday to my lil man!










She was just waiting her turn

Okay...Blogger is driving me crazy in posting these pictures.
I will edit the layout later.

Until next time...See Ya!

He's Turning 8 !!!

I can't believe my baby will be eight years old this week!!!

Time really does go by fast! I love my stinka.

I've been preparing for his bday celebration for this weekend. He couldn't make up his mind if he wanted to have a bowling or skating party. Since most of his friends did not know how to skate, I suggested we do bowling this time. He really is a good kid (I pray that he remains as such), just busy and VERY talkative.

Not much going on other than it's HOT in the DMV (DC/MD/VA for those who don't know).

I still haven't gotten any sewing in and I need short sleeve tops like crazy. I'm going to allot some time to at least make one top...one top. It's like potatoe chips, you can't just eat one...you just can't make one...make some!

Until the next time...

Summer Plans

As the end of the school year grows near. My son asked, "What are we doing for vacation this year?" I thought, "hmmm, that's a good question". I think about a vacation often, but haven't really put a plan together for this summer. Last summer we went to Disney World and Universal Studios. Had a great time.

This year will be different in so many ways. I feel I have to make it extra special as he always looks forward to vacation time. I do too. I want him to be just as happy as he was last year. I asked him, "what are some of the things you would like to do and where would you like to go?" He wants to go back to Hawaii. After explaining we won't visit Hawaii again for a very long time we came up with the following list:

1. Great Wolf Lodge
2. Kings Dominion
3. Hershey Park
4. Texas (I don't know why he chose this)
5. Miami (my choice)
6. VA Beach

Most of the choices are doable. So, from the looks of it...we're going to have a pretty good summer. What's your summer vacation plans?

Update: Mother's Day Gift To Mom & God-Mother

I never posted pictures of the gift I made for my mother and god-mother. Both are cancer surviors and attempt to eat healthier now. I am fortunate to have them. I wanted to give them something they would use. I didn't want to give flowers this year. I have given jewelry, clothing in the past, but I just wasn't feeling any of those items. As my mother is retired now, clothing is not on the top of her list anymore. What I thought was perfect for them both...ending up

exactly what my mom wanted. An Indoor HERB GARDEN. My god-mother's is more of a kit to create her own herb garden. The kit includes a pale, gloves, soil, seed packages, marker labels and plant food.

My Sewing Project 1- B5210

I decided on what my first sewing project for Spring/Summer will be. I was over a girlfriends house and she showed me a dress that she had just brought and it really looked nice on her. Since, I need to add a few dresses to my wardrobe. I used her dress as my inspiration for this project

I chose this dress, view B, as my first project. I am in the process of cutting the pattern out. I will post progress on it and the finish product.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Mother's Day, I was sick as a dog (why do people say that...where did that saying come from?) Anyway, I was waiting to post one of my mother's day gift to my mom as I didn't want to spoil the surprise if she decided to read my blog. I am going to post pictures later. I made one for my God-mother as well, but hers is a little different. You'll see.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I signed up today for the 29 Days Giving Challenge. I decided I'll start on Monday, May 19 to give me a chance to think about some of the things I would like to do. I'm looking forward to it. I'm a giving person, but this will be a little different as I must document my giving and it should be 29 Days straight...that's my challenge. Per the rules, you can give anything...time, money, a listening ear etc. Check the site out and signup!

There's NEVER Enough Time In The Day...

to do what you really need and want to do!

A girl friend sent me a book that she wanted me to read. She sent it to me around the third week in April. Of course, when the book arrived, I read about two chapters...do you think I've picked the book up again. Sure, I have to pick it up to move it from one end of the table to another. It's so bad, that I would like to tell you the title of the book, but I haven't read it since I received it that I can't recall the name of it.

Another girlfriend told me about a sale on flowers, that I ran out and purchased some...do you think I've had time to plant them. I put a little water on them every so often so they will remain living in hopes of planting them one day soon.

That little problem with my back, well, the old mattress and boxspring are leaning against a wall in my home because I haven't called bulk trash to schedule a pickup date. Ugh! It's not enough time in the day to do all these things I need and would like to do.

I've decided, I need a schedule. I need to schedule every little thing I do. I did this once and I got alot done. So, tonight [I am...really!] going to schedule 7 things to do and let's see if I get them done.

What about you? Do you need a schedule? How do you get the things you need to do...DONE?

Update: My Back Is Fine Now

I had to let go of that old mattress...it was killing me!
I removed the old and replaced with a new and I'm feeling fine.
Just wanted to provide that update.

Chow for now!

The First Haircut

Do you remember your child's first haircut? I remember my child's first haircut. I wanted to cry. This article reminded me of that day. Being a single parent, I took my child for that first haircut. He was one years old. My child wouldn't get in the chair by himself, so, I had to sit in the chair and hold him in my lap. I don't think it hurt, but big raindrop tears where falling from his face. I remember saying, "it's okay". I think he was frighten of the buzzing noise from the clippers. The barber was very patient. The men waiting to get their hair cut offered encouragement and took pictures while I was holding my son.

I still have a lock of his hair and pictures which I've decided I am going to create a scrapbook page to save the memory.

If you get a chance, read the article and share with me your experience.

My back is killing me!

I was in so much pain yesterday. I didn't do a thing. Initially, I thought I'd slept wrong, but today I'm still in pain. I've never experienced any problems with my back before, which leads me to think it's the mattress. The tag on my mattress states it's good for 10 years...well, I've had mine, well over ten years. I plan to get one quick, fast and in a hurry. This is the worst pain. NEVER do I want to experience back pain again. This has been a lesson learned. I will be certain to keep track of the years of usage on my other items and the new mattress as well.

My child has been a trooper...giving me messages all day long. I'm tempted to lay on the floor and let the little one walk on my back. I'm scared the walking may turn into jumping!

Wish me luck!

I'M BACCCK!!!

I've been gone longer than I anticipated. I fell into a little depression and was having a tough time shaking it off. I knew I had to get myself together for the sake of my child. I've been reading other blogs and it actually helped me come around...so to speak. I miss my grandmother (probably always will) and I miss my son's father (the good, the bad and the ugly), but as I always say "all things happen for a reason, not by chance". I know God will see me through it all. Okay, moving on before I get depressed again.

Most of my friends and family know I'm a crafty person. One day, I was searching blogs and came across some blogs that I absolutely love! The first I came across was HomemadebyJill. She makes wonderful items. She makes adorable sock animals and the cutiest onesie cookies. Those items are on my list to make. I'm even going to attempt to make a scherenschittes! Jill is taking a break, so I searched for other crafty blogs and stumbled on Real Life: Live & Unscripted . LOVE Adrienne's blog. It's about the things I enjoy doing...sewing, photography and scrapbooking...All in One! She also knits , I crochet...who knows I may be adding knitting to my list of crafty things to do.

If you get a chance, stop past both blogs and tell me what you think. Also, if you know of other crafty blogs along the lines of those I've listed tell me about them and I'll take a visit.

Happy V-Day!

I hope you all are having a wonderful Valentine's Day.

I don't have a Valentine this year. Actually, last year we were "together", as a couple, but we didn't spend Valentine's Day together. It was not one of our best V-days. We've had really nice V-days and well...I will cherish those moments.

Although, I'm single (not by choice) I offer this peace of advice, celebrate your love for someone everyday or as often as possible. Don't wait until Valentine's Day. Merely stating "I Love You" should do the trick, give flowers just because, spend time with one another, or do something he/she enjoys. Show your appreciation of one another.

Although, we are apart, no longer a couple after so many years together, I'm fine. I realize we need this time apart to truly grow and discover ourselves and what we truly want in a mate. I pretty much know what I want, but this time apart allows me to reflect and see how I could have better handled some situations.

One more piece of advice...If you have trouble inside the home; going outside the home won't resolve the issue. Keep lines of communication open. Work it out.

Tell me how you and your loved one celebrated Valentine's Day? Hopefully, I can use some of your ideas next year...wink, wink ;-)

I Just Want To Crawl Under A Rock!

Have you ever felt that way? I have for a long time now. I try to shake it off, but I don't want to shake no more. I'm really trying to shake this depressed feeling. I continue to put one foot in front of the other for the sake of my child. I continue to tell myself your "sunny day" is coming, but it's been one black cloud after another. I want off this road, but can't seem to find my way.

Have you ever known someone who treat people like "poo poo" and have nothing but good things come their way...what is that about? I TRY not to look at other peoples "sunny days", but it's hard when those clouds follow me...all along while I'm singing (to myself of course) "the sun will come out tomorrow...tomorrow...tomorrow...tomorrow etc.," 365 times.

I realize the grass is not always greener on the other side, but give me a chance to find out ;-). Just kidding (sort of). I WANT HAPPINESS!!! When I think it can't get any worse it does. Awe, don't tell me about "The SECRET"...I've tried thinking nothing but good positive thoughts. Nada! No, seriously I've had a semi good day here and there (single digit).

I pulled out my Purpose Driven Life book and plan to read it again from the beginning. Although, it sounds like I'm ungrateful, I'm really not. I thank the Lord for my child, my childs health and other family members as well as other blessings. I just would like some "sunny days"...I don't think that's too much to ask for.

What do you do when you just want to crawl under a rock? How do you shake that feeling?

I'm ok folks, no need to contact the authorities...I'm just having a moment.

Loosing Grandma

H. Lenell Page ~
May you rest in peace~
We will ALWAYS love you!!!

I lost my grandmother today. She'd been fighting cancer since 2005. This past friday she had a stroke; she was very weak. My grandmother didn't deserve to suffer. When I visited her Saturday, while crying a river, I prayed that God would end her pain and suffering. Although, I will truly miss her, I could no longer be selfish and pray for God to allow her to continue to fight and hang on. I "Let go and Let God". My mother, called this morning to say she had passed around 5am. I thanked God for ending her pain and suffering and taking her "home". Now, rather than asking God to strengthen my grandmother, my prayer is to ask God to strengthen my family. She was the "hub" of our family. She knew what was going on with family in Ohio, Virginia, Maryland, D.C., PA. etc.

My son was with me on Saturday and although, I don't think he understood what was taking place. He gave me a hug and said, "Mommy it's going to be okay...Grandma is going to be okay". While hugging him, I thought, not this time baby.

I debated if I should tell my him today that she passed. When I woke him up to get ready for school, I decided to wait as I didn't know how it would effect him. Itook him to school as normal.

My child was use to going to see Grandma practically every day. So, when we went straight home after picking him up from school, he asked, "Are we going to go see Grandma?" I shook my head no. That's all I could do at that point. Once we arrive home, inside the house, I told him that Grandma died today and that I'm glad we were able to see her before she moved on. He took it better than I thought. He cried a little and said he would miss her. One of his regrets is not being able to thank Grandma "for the toy she gave me."

My child has never attended a funeral and again, I don't know how this will effect my child. Any advice you have is welcomed.

Saving with Coupons

Now that my childs appetite is changing, my grocery bill is too. Everything seems to be increasing except my salary.

It's that time to go grocery shopping. I just recently heard about the Grocery Game. It sounds helpful, but I don't think I'm ready for it. I just started clipping and accumulating coupons. I don't have many coupons clipped. I plan to go through the Giant and Super Fresh sales paper and see what coupons I have that corresponds to their sales.

I've been told the key to getting the most for you money using coupons is:

• clip only the coupons of products you use


• use the coupons when the item is on sale


• attempt to use the coupon when it can be doubled

I've heard stories of people cutting their grocery bill in half using coupons. I would love to be one of those people. I found, a site where you can print coupons online. It's a pretty good site. Check the site out.

I'm getting a little excited about going grocery shopping tomorrow. I hope, I save some money.

Do you have any inside secrets of saving with coupons that you would like to share?

No Kids Allowed!

No Children Allowed

Although, we love the children,
we’d love for them to stay home
for this event.
We know you understand.

I'm a social person. I love to go to different type of events. I've even hosted a few events. Today, I'm irritated as I received an invitation to an event that stated "No children allowed"... "Adults Only". Don't get me wrong, I understand there are some situations where children should not be allowed. However, the type of events I've been invited to as of late, I don't see the harm in having children there. I know, it's not always about the environment. However, what further irritates me is when I RSVP stating, I will not be able to attend, the hostess insists I must attend (ah!, I must be able to bring the kid). I explained my situation in not having a babysitter. Again, she insist, you must come...find a babysitter she says.

I really would have liked to gone to the event... the event started at 4:00pm, it's 7:40pm now. I wonder how things went. I wonder who came. I wonder what did I miss.

It's times like this, where I really dislike being the sole responsible person for my child (kicking rocks). The hostess of this event is not the only one whose banding children, can you believe Disney is too!

Finding Time To Exercise

Let's see...awake at 6:00am, hit the snooze button for an extra 15mins. Get myself dress, start breakfast, wake the kid, finish fixing breakfast, wake the kid, straighten the kids clothes(e.g. collar down, shirt in pants etc.) ...out the door by 7:30am. Fight traffic, drop the kid off at school, fight traffic...arrive at work. Deal with work stress and then make certain, I pick the kid up by 6:00 pm from school (aftercare). Once we arrive home barely having my coat off, I hear the familiar saying "I'm hungry". In the kitchen, I go to start dinner, complete or start the laundry. Go over or start homework. I'm not done, but you get the picture.

Finding time to exercise seems impossible. I miss going to the gym. Prior to having my child, I went on a regular basis. It's easier to find time to exercise during the spring and summer months. I use to take my child's scooter to the park or school track and we both were satisfied. It's during the colder months that I have difficulty finding time for exercising. I really don't have the room in my home to exercise. The gym that I attend -ed do not allow children in the facility. I don't think I would get a good workout with the kid around anyway.

Finding time to exercise is a must. I realize this more as I'm typing. I want to remain healthy to be able to continue to ...awake at 6:00am, hit the snooze button for an extra 15 minutes, etc. I found a great site of easy exercises. Take a look.

Share how you get your exercise and what type of exercise you do during the colder months .

Stress Relievers

One of my promises to myself for 2008 is to learn how to relieve my everyday stress. This is one reason why I started this blog. I've always heard that writing your thoughts down relieves stress. We'll see...

Stressed? Yes, I am. Why?
It's not easy being a single parent. I wish I had the luxury of saying "Honey, can you watch the kid". I don't get a break until "the kid" is in bed. I have to sneak breaks. If the my child is downstairs, I'll tippy toe upstairs and wouldn't you know it, by the time I get to the top, "Mommy, where are you?" Sometimes, I have to go in the bathroom just to get a break. I don't do this often, but sometimes I need a moment to myself. Just a moment. I know even if you're married or have a significant other, being a parent can be stressful. However, being a single parent is even more stressful. The single parent fills many roles.


I love my child, but the he is like the "bunny", you know the one that keeps going and going. He's a chatter box as well. If I hear another corny "knock knock" joke I think I might scream. I might scream, if someone on my job comes to discuss something at 4:55 pm, when my "work" day is over at 5:00 pm and I have to pick up my child by 6:00pm or I'll have to pay $10 per every 3mins. I had to pay that hefty fee once and don't want to think about it...because it stresses me out!

So, now that you've had a little peek in my window, help me keep my promise to myself. Let me in on how you relieve stress. Also, share how you get a moment to yourself when the kids around.